Small shed plans

JulianJuly 30, 2012Comments Off

This step by step woodworking project is about small shed plans free. In this article we should you how to build a basic shed, along with all the techniques, materials and tools required for the job. A small garden shed is ideal for any backyard, as it creates storage space for tools and outdoor furniture. If you want to keep the costs under control, you could get the job done by yourself, even if you don’t have much expertise in the field. Just choose the right plans for your needs and follow the step by step instructions to obtain a professional result.

The location of the shed is essential for your project, therefore you have to consult the local building codes, before starting the project. In most of the cases, there are many legal requirements you have to comply with, including the depth of the foundation, the materials used or the location of the small shed. On the other hand, you should make sure there is a smooth transition between the design of your shed and the rest of your garden.

Small garden shed components

Small shed components

Building a small shed in your backyard would not only add an useful storage space to your property, but it also comes at a low cost. In order to reduce the expenditures even further, you could undertake the project by yourself. Therefore, choose the plans that fit your needs and tastes, before buying all the materials required for the job.

Top Tip: If you want to obtain a nice design, we recommend you to cover all the exposed edges with wooden trims. In this manner, the trims would enhance the natural elegance of the small shed and protect the edges from possible impacts.

Small Shed Plans Free

Small shed layout

First of all, you should lay out the small shed in a professional manner, using several batter boards and string. In order to build the batter boards, we recommend you to use 2×4 slats and decking nails. Secure them at least 4” in the ground, before adjusting the string.

Top Tip: Check the corners for squareness, using a carpentry square. In addition, make sure the diagonals are equal, otherwise adjust their position.

Small shed footings plans

Next, you have to pour the concrete footing that will support the shed into place. If you don’t want a permanent construction, you should consider placing the shed on several 4×4 skids or several concrete blocks.

If you want to anchor the shed into place, you have to dig 2-3′ dip holes (6-10” in diameter), install tube forms and the fit the posts. Mix concrete in a wheelbarrow and fill the form, using a trowel. Align the posts properly, making sure they are all level.

Small shed floor plans

The next step of the project is to build the frame of the floor, from 2×6 beams. As you can see in the image, you have to cut the rim joists at the right size and lock them into position with 3” screws. Make sure the joists are equally spaced, in order to support the weight properly.

Top Tip: Drill pilot holes in the rim joists, before inserting the galvanized screws, in order to prevent the wood from splitting.

Installing the flooring

Afterwards, you should install the flooring on top of the joists, as in the free plans. From our experience, we recommend you to use 3/4” tongue and groove plywood, as the sheets connect together easily.

Top Tip: Align the plywood sheets properly along every corner and edges, before driving in the decking screws. Insert the screws/nails every 10” along the joists.

Small wall shed plans

Next, you have to build the side walls and to install them along the edges of the small shed, as you should notice the image. Cut the studs and the wall plates at the right size and assemble the frame on the ground.

Next, place it on along the edge of the floor, plumb it with a spirit level and lock it into place with 2×4 braces. Afterwards, insert 4” screws trough the bottom plate in the joists.

Front wall plans

After you have installed the sides of the shed, you have to build the front and the back faces and fit them into place. Therefore, you should measure attentively the distance between the side walls and cut the components accordingly.

Top Tip: We recommend you to cut the bottom plate jut under the door opening. In addition, make the whole structure rigid, by inserting screws trough the walls studs in the adjacent walls, along every corner.

Back wall plans

Fitting the back wall is a straigh-forward job, if you have reached this stage of the project. Build the frame on the ground and place it into place. Use a spirit level to plumb the frame properly and lock it properly, using 4” screws, trough the bottom plate in the wooden joists.

Top Tip: Lock the wall frame together, by inserting 3” screws, along every corner. The top plate should stick out 3 1/2” on both sides.

Attaching the exterior

After you have build the frame of the small shed, you have to attach the exterior siding, as you can see in the image. Work with great care and attention, if you want to get the job done in a professional manner.

Top Tip: Cut the 5/8” grooved plywood with a saw and secure it into place with 1 1/4” nails. The siding has to be flush with the bottom plate and should cover the rim joists.

This woodworking project is about small shed plans free. If you want to see more outdoor plans, we recommend you to check out the rest of our step by step projects.